10 Habits Lagosians Have That Outsiders Will Never Understand
Lagos is more than just Nigeria’s busiest city — it’s a living, breathing organism powered by hustle, survival, and a bit of organized chaos. For outsiders, some Lagos habits may seem strange, funny, or even confusing, but to Lagosians, they’re simply part of life. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Here are 10 habits Lagosians have that only those who’ve lived here truly understand:
1. Calculating Traffic Time in “Lagos Minutes”
In Lagos, 10 minutes on Google Maps could mean 45 minutes in real life. Every Lagosian has mastered the art of leaving “early” — which usually means at least an hour before your appointment.
2. Eating Breakfast in Traffic
From Agege bread with egg to akara wrapped in old newspapers, Lagosians turn traffic jams into moving breakfast cafés.
3. Constantly Saying “How Far?” Even When You Don’t Expect an Answer
It’s the unofficial greeting in Lagos. “How far?” doesn’t really mean “How are you?” — it’s just how conversations start.
4. Bargaining Like It’s an Olympic Sport
From Balogun Market to Mile 12, Lagosians can haggle a ₦5,000 price tag down to ₦1,500 — and still act like they’re overpaying.
5. Crossing Busy Roads Like Professional Sprinters
Forget zebra crossings; Lagosians have perfected the timing needed to weave through danfos, okadas, and impatient drivers.
6. Shouting “Owa O!” Inside a Danfo
When it’s time to get off the yellow bus, shouting “Owa!” (I’m getting down) is the universal signal.
7. Always Having “Change” Drama with Bus Conductors
No matter how prepared you are, you’ll still hear “No change, bring ₦100” from the conductor.
8. Speaking in a Blend of English, Pidgin, and Yoruba (Sometimes All in One Sentence)
Conversations can sound like: “O boy, traffic no gree me reach before 9 o. Na wah o, ehn!”
9. Turning Every Outing into a Networking Opportunity
From weddings to the barbershop, Lagosians are always ready to “link up” for business or hustle.
10. Surviving on Generator Power Without Complaining (Too Much)
The hum of “I better pass my neighbour” generators is the city’s background music.
Conclusion:
For outsiders, these habits may seem strange, but they’re what make Lagosians resilient, creative, and adaptable. Live here long enough, and you’ll find yourself doing them too — without even noticing.